Damaging Essential Infrastructure
By Thobeka Makume
Two men have been arrested in Thabong near Welkom for tampering with, damaging, and destroying essential infrastructure. The arrests were made following a tip-off from a private media stakeholder regarding potential destruction of valuable infrastructure in the Dagbreek area. The suspects were found in possession of heavy steel cut-offs, indicating their involvement in the illicit dismantling of critical structures. 
Details of the Arrest
According to Free State SAPS spokesperson Thabo Covane, the Tactical Joint Operational Centre (TacJoc) members acted promptly on the information received. They identified and intercepted a maroon Ford Ranger double cab traveling along Mangosuthu Street. Upon conducting a thorough search of the vehicle, officers discovered equipment commonly used in such crimes, including saw blades, heavy-duty spanners, and red heavy-duty rubber gloves inside a backpack. Additionally, twenty cut-offs of heavy-duty steel pylon struts, weighing approximately 523 kilograms, were loaded at the back of the vehicle. The two suspects, aged 41 and 62, were immediately arrested and are expected to appear in the Welkom Magistrates Court soon. 
The Broader Issue of Infrastructure Vandalism in South Africa
Infrastructure vandalism has become a pervasive issue in South Africa, posing significant challenges to the nation’s economy and public services. The theft and destruction of essential infrastructure not only disrupt daily life but also incur substantial financial losses.
Economic Impact
Vandalism targeting public infrastructure exacts an astounding toll on the economy, with losses hovering around an estimated R187 billion a year. This figure eclipses the economic effects of other criminal elements in the infrastructure sector, including the construction mafia, which has become a focal point of the government’s anti-crime efforts. The latter is estimated to drain a significant R68 billion from the economy each year, primarily through extortion, project delays, and cancellations. 
Cable theft and infrastructure vandalism across the country cost Telkom, Eskom, PRASA, and Transnet approximately R7 billion a year in direct losses. However, the knock-on effect to the economy is far greater, estimated at approximately R187 billion per annum. 
Impact on Public Services
The repercussions of infrastructure vandalism extend beyond financial losses. The destruction and theft of essential components can lead to significant disruptions in public services. For instance, vandalism to rail infrastructure costs the country close to R5 billion a year, directly impacting the amount of freight transported via the railway system annually. 
Government and Law Enforcement Response
In response to the escalating issue, the South African government and law enforcement agencies have intensified efforts to combat infrastructure-related crimes. To date, more than 6,000 individuals allegedly involved in infrastructure theft and vandalism have been arrested, with conviction rates showing improvement. The National Prosecution Authority has secured 193 convictions out of the 210 cases that came before it, amounting to a 91% conviction rate.
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 091 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: Ndlozi on Ramaphosa: “He’s Not What We Were Told” – A Surprising Change in Tone”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Central-News-Issue-091.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube